Sexual abuse, for instance being touched or hit in private places, or even being sexually assaulted. Sexual abuse can be verbal too, through comments and jokes that make the older person feel threatened or embarrassed.

Financial abuse or theft. This can be as straightforward as someone stealing money or valuables, or keeping some or all the money that should be used to pay bills

Neglect - this includes not providing enough or the right kind of food for a vulnerable adult, or not taking good enough care of them. Leaving someone unwashed or in dirty or wet clothes, not getting them to a doctor when they need one or not making sure they have the right medicines all count as neglect.

Institutional – the mistreatment or neglect of an adult by a regime or individuals in settings which adults who may be at risk reside in or use. This can occur in any organization, within or outside Health and Social Care (HSC) provision.

How to Access the Service

If you ever feel in immediate danger or think someone else may be in immediate danger, Dial 999

If you are worried about someone who you believe is being abused, exploited or neglected, you can contact the Adult Protection Gateway Team.

The Team operates an open referral system so anyone can contact us directly: